Your Guide to Divorce: What You Need to Know

Divorce can be a challenging time, both emotionally and practically. Understanding the process can make it easier to navigate and ensure you make informed decisions for your future. This guide explains the basics of divorce in the UK, what’s involved, and how to take the next steps.

What Is Divorce?

Divorce is the legal process of ending a marriage. Once your divorce is finalised, your marriage is legally dissolved, and both parties are free to remarry if they choose.

In the UK, the divorce process no longer requires either party to assign blame for the marriage breakdown. Under the current “no-fault” system, introduced in April 2022, you simply need to confirm that the marriage has irretrievably broken down.

Whatever the reason, a divorce allows both parties to move forward independently while resolving key issues such as finances =.

How Does the Divorce Process Work?

The divorce process in England and Wales follows these key steps:

1. Filing the divorce application. Either you or your spouse (or both jointly) can apply online or via paper. You’ll need to pay a fee of £593 (as of 2025).

2. Acknowledgement of service. The court sends the application to the other spouse, who must confirm receipt and agree to the proceedings.

3. Reflection period. A mandatory 20-week waiting period before applying for the conditional order gives both parties time to consider their options.

4. Conditional order. This is the legal confirmation that the court sees no reason the marriage cannot be ended. You can apply for this at the end of the 20 week waiting period.

5. Final order. After at least six weeks from the conditional order, you can apply for the final order, which legally ends the marriage.

What About Financial and Child Arrangements?

A divorce itself only dissolves the marriage. It does not resolve financial matters or arrangements for children. These are handled separately but are crucial to finalising the process.

• Financial agreements: You and your ex-partner need to decide how assets, debts, pensions, and property will be divided. A legally binding financial order ensures clarity, protects both parties and can create a financial clean break between you.

• Child arrangements: If you have children, decisions will need to be made regarding their living arrangements, schooling, and contact with each parent. This is not dealt with as part of the divorce process and parents are expected agree arrangements between themselves if possible.

If an agreement cannot be reached, the court can be asked to make decisions on your behalf.

Do I Need Legal Advice?

Deciding to go through a divorce is a distressing time, and a solicitor can help you understand your rights and responsibilities. 

While it is possible to apply for divorce yourself, legal advice can make the process smoother and ensures that agreements are fair and legally binding, especially if your situation involves:

• Finances or property ownership, including pensions.

• Disagreements about child arrangements.

• A partner who is unwilling to cooperate.

When Should I Start the Divorce Process?

You can apply for divorce once you’ve been married for at least one year. It’s important to feel emotionally ready and to have sought professional advice if you’re unsure of the implications.

Next Steps

Divorce is never an easy decision but taking that first step can bring clarity and peace of mind. Whether you need guidance on the divorce process, help with financial settlements, or advice on child arrangements, our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way.

Contact us today for sympathetic, realistic advice and take control of your future.